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Billing code

F030A — Distal radius fracture – open reduction

Wrist fracture, open reduction

Bill for open reduction of a distal radius fracture other than an isolated radial styloid fracture.

Watch for: F021 isn't payable with F030 for the same wrist; E063 needs both dorsal and volar fixation described.

Code

F030A

Description

Distal radius fracture – open reduction

FHO+ basket

Not in the FHO+ base rate basket (Schedule 2 or 2B).

Effective date

Apr 1, 2026

Termination date

No end date

Explanation

Updated October 26, 2026

Open reduction of a distal radius fracture, other than an isolated radial styloid fracture.

What it covers

F030 is open reduction of a distal radius fracture other than an isolated radial styloid fracture (N21). An isolated radial styloid or osteochondral fracture is F021 (N21).

F030 includes denervation of the wrist if done (N22).

Billing rules

• Open reduction means treating the fracture or dislocation by closed intramedullary fixation or by an operation that exposes it; the fee includes fixation by internal or external devices (N1).
• Add E063 (+50%) for an AO/OTA Group C complete intra-articular fracture that needs both dorsal and volar internal fixation; both must be described (N21, N22).
• Add E064 for open reduction of a distal third ulnar fracture and/or repair of a DRUJ dislocation (N21).
• F021 is not payable with F030 for the same wrist (N22).
• The major pre-operative visit (the consultation or assessment where you decide to treat) may be billed in addition to the fracture or dislocation fee (N1, SP2).
• Multiple fractures or dislocations: the major one is paid at 100% and each other one at 85% (N1).
• If after-care is transferred to another physician, the surgeon who did the open reduction claims 80% of the fee (N2).
• Non-elective and started after hours: add E409 (+50%, weekday evenings and weekend/holiday days and evenings) or E410 (+75%, nights 00:00–07:00) (GP103–GP104, SP2).

Often billed with

• E063 Group C fracture with dorsal and volar fixation (N21).
• E064 distal ulna or DRUJ repair (N21).

Related codes: E063, E064, F021, F027, F028, F046

Source: Schedule of Benefits (July 1, 2026), Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures, Elbow and Forearm, page N21. Fracture and dislocation rules N1–N2.

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